The McGrath Foundation has welcomed Michelle Rampant as a newly appointed McGrath Breast Care Nurse for St John of God Bunbury Hospital helping to support local families experiencing breast cancer.
Michelle joins Yarna Sargent as the second McGrath Breast Care Nurse in the region, following the departure of Ann Retzlaff. There have been two McGrath Breast Care Nurses in Bunbury since July 2008.
Over the past 10 years over 2,000 people in the Bunbury region have had access to free physical, psychological and emotional support through McGrath Breast Care Nurses.
“Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the South West Region of WA** and many people in the region think they will need to travel to Perth to access treatment. This is not the case as there are so many treatment options available locally across the spectrum of care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, if needed, palliative care,” Michelle said.
“I help coordinate local treatment, meaning people with breast cancer are able to remain with their families and support networks.”
Prior to accepting the role of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Michelle worked as a breast assessment nurse with BreastScreen WA for over four years. She has also previously worked in antenatal care and as a practice nurse, so brings a wide range of skills to her role.
McGrath Foundation CEO, Holly Masters, welcomed Michelle to the role and thanked her predecessor for the difference she made to local people experiencing breast cancer.
“The support of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse is invaluable, so we’re thrilled Michelle is able to continue to provide this free service in Bunbury to people at all stages of their breast cancer experience. We’d also like to thank outgoing McGrath Breast Care Nurse Ann Retzlaff for the hard work, care and support she provided to so many people throughout the region,” Masters said.
“Our McGrath Breast Care Nurses act as a patient advocate; they coordinate care not only for people with breast cancer, but also for the families and carers. Importantly the service is available by self-referral and is entirely free, so I’d encourage anyone looking for support to get in touch with Michelle.”
People with breast cancer can contact Michelle by clicking ‘Find a Nurse’ or on michelle.rampant@sjog.org.au
